1. Can We Talk about Race? And Other Conversations in an Era of School Resegregation by Beverly Daniel Tatum
This is an incredible book that gives a great introduction on how to be actively anti-racist. You should definitely also check out her TedTalks and interviews on YouTube because they are just as brilliant as her writing.
2. The Financial Diet by Chelsea Fagan
This is my favorite current read! I am starting to take a serious look at my finances, and this is a great read for anyone who wants to be a "real" adult someday! As a person who is finally making a real salary for the first time in her life, it's very helpful knowing that I can start planning for my future self out of love, not out of burden.
3. Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be by Frank Bruni
This book is particularly helpful if you are looking for the next steps in your academic life. Geared towards high school students looking at colleges and their families, I think this is a very valuable book that teaches that no matter where you choose to go for your secondary education, you can still have a successful career and a happy life, even if you don't get into MIT or Harvard. I read this book twice, once as a high school senior and another time as a college sophomore wondering if I had made the "right" college choice. Both times reading this book I was reminded that the most important thing about a college education is the many doors that it opens, no matter where you go.
4. Educated by Tara Westover
I have been listening to this book on Audible and let me tell you, my jaw has dropped multiple times. Her memoir is so powerful and is a great read to listen to.
5. Hamilton by Ron Chernow
I will talk about Ron Chernow's biographies for HOURS. His work is what the Broadway hit musical Hamilton was based after, and if you have been jamming out to the musical on Disney+ like I have been this past July, it's a fantastic read to connect the songs and story to the actual historical events and characters.
P.S. A lot of public libraries have audiobooks for free! Reading and life-long learning does not have to be expensive, so check for PDFs of books online, local libraries, and check out secondhand bookstores' websites!
